Psalm 119:105-120

105 Your word is a lamp to guide me and a light for my path. 106 I will keep my solemn promise to obey your just instructions. 107 My sufferings, Lord, are terrible indeed; keep me alive, as you have promised. 108 Accept my prayer of thanks, O Lord, and teach me your commands. 109 I am always ready to risk my life; I have not forgotten your law. 110 The wicked lay a trap for me, but I have not disobeyed your commands. 111 Your commandments are my eternal possession; they are the joy of my heart. 112 I have decided to obey your laws until the day I die. 113 I hate those who are not completely loyal to you, but I love your law. 114 You are my defender and protector; I put my hope in your promise. 115 Go away from me, you sinful people. I will obey the commands of my God. 116 Give me strength, as you promised, and I shall live; don't let me be disappointed in my hope! 117 Hold me, and I will be safe, and I will always pay attention to your commands. 118 You reject everyone who disobeys your laws; their deceitful schemes are useless. 119 You treat all the wicked like rubbish, and so I love your instructions. 120 Because of you I am afraid; I am filled with fear because of your judgments.

As First Writes continues studying Psalm 119 we concentrated this week on verses 105-120. Here’s what we learned in class Wednesday evening.

Verse 105 compares God’s Word to a lamp. It can banish fears, point out potential hazards, offer comfort, and reveal hidden things. The Bible is our light to show us the way ahead so we won’t stumble as we walk. It reveals the entangling roots of misplaced priorities and misguided beliefs. When we study the Bible we will be able to see our way clear enough to stay on the right path.

Our writing can be like a light for our readers. When we write about our own experiences and how God’s Word has guided us, we can shine the light of Scripture on the lives of our readers. Often when reading what others have written, people experience a “light bulb” moment of clarity and understanding.

In verse 111, the psalmist likens God’s word to an eternal possession, a treasure or heritage. It is applicable yesterday, is up to date today, and will be relevant tomorrow. It is full of priceless truths for correcting faults and rebuking error, and timeless knowledge about human nature and personal relationships.

Verse 114 reminds us that God’s Word is our source of hope. It is full of promises and assurances and examples of faith under fire.

Writing challenge: Look over Psalm 119:105-120. Jot down five declarative statements made about the Lord and His word from these 16 verses. A declarative sentence simply states a fact, argument, or idea, such as “God’s Word is a shield.” Or “God’s Word is an eternal heritage.”

           

Pick one of the statements and write about how this truth can make a difference in a person’s life. Try to include an example from your own experience.